Around 9,000 state employees across six agencies in Ohio have received notifications of potential furloughs due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. The Ohio Department of Administrative Services (DAS) indicated that the actual number of employees who will be furloughed is expected to be less than half as agencies assess which positions are funded by federal resources.
The notifications serve as a precautionary measure, adhering to collective bargaining agreements that require a 14-day notice period before any funding interruption can take place. This means that if a resolution is reached in the U.S. Senate before the notice period concludes on September 29, 2023, the warnings may become unnecessary.
Several state agencies are involved, including the Ohio Adjutant General’s Department, the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities, the Ohio Department of Health, the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, and the Ohio Department of Public Safety. DAS is currently determining the specific number of positions that will be affected by the potential furloughs.
The shutdown has raised concerns about the impact on state services. “While we hope for a resolution from Washington soon, we must prepare for the potential impact on our workforce in the coming weeks should the shutdown continue,” stated Kathleen C. Madden, Director of DAS. She emphasized that the department will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as necessary.
As agencies work to clarify the extent of the furloughs, the situation remains fluid. If Congress can negotiate and pass a clean continuing resolution, it could alleviate the need for any furloughs, bringing relief to thousands of workers and their families.
The ramifications of the federal shutdown extend beyond state employees, as local businesses and communities also brace for potential economic disruptions. As Ohio navigates these challenges, the focus remains on ensuring minimal impact on essential services and the workforce.
